Manila, Feb. 13 -- The Department of Agriculture (DA) kicked off the expansion of the "Benteng Bigas Meron (BBM) Na" program in Metro Manila in a ceremony in San Juan City on Friday.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., together with Mayor Francis Zamora and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairperson Romando Artes, led the kick-off ceremony, signaling a broader expansion plan that will establish at least five BBM Na outlets in every local government unit across Metro Manila.

"We are opening more opportunities for every Filipino family to buy quality rice at an affordable price. This is not a promo. This is not a sale. This is a serious step toward food security, and a lifeline for those who need it badly," T...